Small Business Saturday

11/29/2013 03:18 PM

11/29/2013 03:24 PM

Small businesses are asking you to shop local on Saturday.

Nestled right in-between the two biggest shopping days of the year is small business Saturday. You could say it's the black Friday for people who care about local business. In a time where you can buy virtually anything online, local business owners say it's about the experience and the atmosphere. American Express is the founding partner of small business Saturday, created the Saturday after Thanksgiving in 2010. This is the first year The Erie Downtown Partnership is jumping on the initiative asking several downtown shops to participate. You'll see these signs outside of several downtown Erie retailers and restaurants.“We’re not here to boycott national retailers or shopping malls. Some people get a rush out of the crowds at the Malls and Big Box stores; the competition to be first in line, the heavily discounted electronics, and the early morning camp outs for this year’s hot item. But, many of us appreciate the historic storefronts, the brisk stroll along the downtown streets, the unique and personal gifts, and the cozy pubs and eclectic coffee spots. You might not find Tickle Me Elmo or the latest Xbox Game, but you will find hand-blown glass décor by local artisans, attractive clothing at boutique style shops, a jersey of your favorite local sports star and tickets to your favorite musical.” Said John Buchna, CEO of the Erie Downtown Partnership.